Modular, dynamically sized and shaped, industrial-liquid-containment system and methods of use

ABSTRACT

What is disclosed is a portable, modular, and dynamically sized and shaped, above-ground, industrial liquid-containment system. Typically, the system has an outer-containment perimeter and an inner-containment perimeter (a reservoir), thus providing two barriers for environmental protection. A reservoir is comprised of a plurality of substantially A-framed segments that are hinged at the top and allows for folding together when the center and bottom braces are removed. A key feature for the A-frame segments is in their lack of steel cladding on the water side of most A-frames segments. Instead, fabric and/or cargo netting is used because it reduces weight and grips the A-frame purlins as the weight of contained liquids exert stabilizing downward force on A-frames. In addition, a steel grid system can run along the reservoir floor to compensate for expansion forces due to both temperature and water-weight.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present patent application is related to, and has commoninventorship and ownership with, U.S. Patent Application No. 61/381,168,filed on Sep. 9, 2010, for “Liquid Containment System”, and herebyincorporates by reference U.S. Patent Application No. 61/381,168 in itsentirety for all purposes.

The present patent application also claims the benefit of, and hascommon inventorship and ownership with, U.S. Patent Application No.61/445,653, filed on Feb. 23, 2011, for “Modular, Dynamically Sized andShaped, Industrial-Liquid-Containment System and Methods of Use”, andhereby incorporates by reference U.S. Patent Application No. 61/445,653in its entirety for all purposes.

The present patent application also claims the benefit of, and hascommon inventorship and ownership with, U.S. Patent Application No.61/569,070, filed on Dec. 9, 2011, for “Modular, Dynamically Sized andShaped, Industrial-Liquid-Containment System and Methods of Use”, andhereby incorporates by reference U.S. Patent Application No. 61/569,070in its entirety for all purposes.

The present patent application also claims the benefit of, and hascommon inventorship and ownership with, U.S. Patent Application No.61/600,640, filed on Feb. 18, 2012, for “Modular, Dynamically Sized andShaped, Industrial-Liquid-Containment System and Methods of Use”, andhereby incorporates by reference U.S. Patent Application No. 61/600,640in its entirety for all purposes.

Further, the present patent application also claims the benefit of, andhas common inventorship and ownership with, Patent Cooperation Treaty(PCT) Application No. PCT/US11/50834, filed on Sep. 8, 2011, for“Modular, Dynamically Sized and Shaped, Industrial-Liquid-ContainmentSystem and Methods of Use”, and hereby incorporates by reference PCTApplication No. PCT/US 11/50834 in its entirety for all purposes.

BACKGROUND

Liquid-containment systems are required in myriad industrial settings,particularly when there is a significant potential for the inadvertentand uncontrolled release of industrial waste to the environment.Typically, the currently available systems, such as Frac Tanks andin-ground pits, have proven to be overly difficult and time-consuming toerect, resulting in undesirable high costs and system unreliability.

Many industries, such as the oil & gas industry, require water storagefacilities both clean and potentially contaminated—with minimal impacton local resources. Such undesirable impacts include degradation ofsmall watersheds and streams, particularly with industrial waste water.In addition, many surface owner requirements include multiple land uses,including oil and gas development, and need minimal ground disturbanceand resultant ground reclamation. A system that successfully addressesthese issues will lead to faster regulatory permitting, completion, andreclamation. Moreover, such an above-ground, modular solution canenhance post-production land use.

What is needed is an easily portable industrial liquid-containmentsystem that can easily be modified in the field for specificapplications.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A depicts one embodiment of a simplified overview of a modularindustrial-liquid-containment system, showing both two internal modularliquid-containment pools, each with expansion compensation grid systemsinstalled on the pool floors, but not showing the pools'liquid-impermeable covering. In addition, embodiments of two equipmentbridges are depicted straddling over the internal liquid-containmentwalls. Surrounding the entire internal liquid-containment pools is asecondary, backup liquid-containment system designed to capture anyleakage from either of the two internal pools. The liquid-impermeablecovering used for this backup containment system, which also underliesthe two internal pools, is not shown for simplicity.

FIG. 1B depicts one embodiment of a top view of the general layout ofthe two internal modular liquid-containment pools depicted in FIG. 1A.This top view shows a plurality of modular pool-wall segments, as wellas an internal grid-system layout.

FIGS. 2A-2C depict several embodiments of two adjacent, substantiallyA-frame shaped segments used in some embodiments of pool-containmentwalls. FIG. 2A shows such segments without additional cladding or othermaterial used to cover the frame. However, FIGS. 2B-2C depict the samesegments with various optional coverings; fabric sheets, cargo netting,and/or variable-sized welded wire mesh, respectively; that helpstabilize the segments as liquid fills the pool (after theliquid-impermeable layer is applied), and the weight of the containedliquid provides downward stabilizing forces on the segments' purlins.

FIGS. 3A-3E depict one embodiment of various views of a modularindustrial-liquid containment system being assembled. The assembly showsboth two internal modular liquid-containment pool frameworks, each withexpansion compensation grid systems installed on the pool floors, butnot with the pools' liquid-impermeable covering installed. In addition,surrounding the entire internal liquid-containment pools is a secondary,backup liquid-containment system designed to capture any leakage fromeither of the two internal pools. The liquid-impermeable covering usedfor this backup containment system, which also underlies the twointernal pools, is shown.

FIGS. 4A-4C depict three different embodiments of an equipment-supportbridge used to straddle over the walls of anindustrial-liquid-containment pool without touching the wall of the pooland while preventing support equipment, such as suction hoses/piping,from contacting the wall of the industrial-liquid-containment pool.

FIGS. 5A-5C depict one embodiment of the top views of corner structuresused in the assembly of a segmented wall of a modularindustrial-liquid-containment system. The structures include the use ofspecially angle-clipped, hinged A-frame segments and a ground-levelballast member to which the corner segments are coupled.

FIGS. 6A-6C depict one embodiment of more top views of corner structuresused in the assembly of a segmented wall of a modularindustrial-liquid-containment system, plus a top view of one embodimentof a ground-level set of pads, webs, and cross bars used to secure theplurality of wall segments for the industrial-liquid-containment pool(s)in place.

FIGS. 7A-7B depict other embodiments of corner base frame structures insupport of a segmented industrial-liquid-containment wall.

FIGS. 8A-8C depict another embodiment of a specialized substantiallyA-frame-shaped, hinged segment that is angle clipped on one side tofacilitate a corner installation for a perimeter boundary for anindustrial-liquid-containment system.

FIGS. 9A-9I depict one embodiment of a substantially A-frame-shapedsegment used in the perimeter boundary of a modularindustrial-liquid-containment system. The segment is hinged at the topto facilitate easy collapsibility, storage, and transport. In addition,the figures depict a variation of in-field installation and mountingdetails, as well as depict an embodiment of the purlins that areimportant to use on the liquid-containment side in conjunction withpanels of fabric, pluralities of strapping, cargo netting, orvariable-sized welded wire mesh in order to create a stabilizingballast-type effect as the reservoir fills with liquid.

FIGS. 10A-10G depict one embodiment of the ground-foundation details forinstalling a plurality of modular, industrial-liquid-containment wallsegments, with details including slide-bearing footing plans, variousmounting/slide-support pad/bearing details, spreader-bar details, andvarious connection details that define the interface to the pool-basedgrid network system, which is designed to spread.

FIGS. 11A-11F depict one embodiment of the installation details of oneembodiment of a grid network disposed under anindustrial-liquid-containment reservoir, said grid network anchored atits edges to the perimeter-wall segments and designed to transferexpansion forces realized by the reservoir as liquid fills the reservoirand/or temperature changes. Included in these details are the hub-padassemblies, which are key to allowing the intersecting plurality oflines of ties bars to move freely with respect to other intersectingtie-bar lines. Other details, such as tie-bar support pad placements arealso shown.

FIGS. 12A-12B depict one embodiment of an end A-frame segment supportpad.

FIGS. 13A-13B depict one embodiment of a center A-frame segment supportpad.

FIGS. 14A-14B depict one embodiment of an end A-frame segment supportpad for the exterior-wall side of an A-frame-shaped segment.

FIGS. 15A-15B depict another embodiment of an end A-frame segmentsupport pad for the exterior-wall side of an A-frame-shaped segment.

FIGS. 16A-16B depict one embodiment of a slotted hub-support pad used insome grid networks in an industrial-liquid-containment pond.

FIGS. 17A-17B depict one embodiment of a tie-bar-support pad used insome grid networks in an industrial-liquid-containment pond.

FIG. 18 depicts one embodiment of an alternate substantially A-framesegment, wherein the A-frame segment is comprised of two maincomponents: a substantially A-framed top member and a bottom memberconfigured to detachably couple with the top member to form a largeroverall substantially A-framed segment. The top member can be used byitself to form part of a curb for an outer-perimeter boundary for aliquid-containment system, and is small enough such that a plurality(e.g., three) of such top members can be storably fit inside of thebottom member. In addition, the bottom members can be used without thetop member to help form a shorter perimeter segment for a modularliquid-containment reservoir, or to erect a portable dam for floodcontrol. These bottom members are also adapted to be nestably storedupon each other.

FIGS. 19A-19C depict one embodiment of an alternate intra-reservoir gridnetwork, wherein instead of a network of rigid metal bars/straps/cablesthat intersect at grid-hub assemblies, a network of intersecting longcables, anchored at each cable end to the perimeter-wall segments anddesigned to transfer expansion forces realized by the reservoir asliquid fills the reservoir and/or temperature changes.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION I. Overview

The present inventive concept is generally directed to a portable,modular, and dynamically sized and shaped, above-ground, industrialliquid-containment system, which, for ease of reference, will behereafter referred to as the “Quick-Pit System”.

In a typical embodiment, the Quick-Pit System has an outer-containmentperimeter and an inner-containment perimeter. The outer-containmentperimeter is comprised of many removably coupled curb segments, each ofwhich has a cross-section that has a substantially A-frame shape. Thefloor of the outer containment perimeter is continuously covered byliquid-impermeable sheeting; for example, HDPE liner systems. In someembodiments, the perimeter wall can be extended in height by installingcurb-height extender segments on top of the ground-level curb segments,where the curb-height extender segments have a smaller angle than theground-level curb segments. This outer perimeter containment system isdescribed in great detail in Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) ApplicationNo. PCT/US 11/50834, upon which the present patent application bothclaims the benefit of and incorporates by reference the entirety of.

The inner-containment perimeter is a liquid-containment pond orreservoir, sometimes referred to in the industry as a “swimming pool” inthat it is designed to actually contain a substantial pool of water orother industrial liquid. A typical “swimming pool” is comprised of aplurality of substantially A-framed segments that are significantlytaller than the outer-perimeter curb segments. In one embodiment, eachA-frame is 7.5° wide, 9.5° deep, and 10′ high, though the components canbe scaled up or down to better suit a particular application. In avariation, a hinge at the top of an A-frame segment allows the frame tofold together when the center and bottom braces are removed. In otherembodiments, the “A”-frame segment wall frames are not hinged togetherand must be assembled together in the field. When the A-frame segment isin use, the center and bottom braces are held in place with pins. Oncethe frames are in compact/disassembled form, they can be easilytransported and stored. Once assembled, the entire reservoir iscontinuously covered with liquid-impermeable sheeting; for example, HDPEliner systems.

In both the outer and inner perimeters, are embodiments of variousspecialized perimeter-corner designs. One corner design of particularsignificance depicts how two specially clipped segments come togetherand are anchored by a ground-level, T-shaped ballast member, wherein theballast member can be filled with weighting material such as heavymetal, concrete, or even dirt. Other shapes of ballast members can alsobe used, such as a corner base frame and a ballast mid-wall member.

Another key point of novelty for the A-frame segments used for the“swimming pool” is in its lack of steel cladding up the water side ofthe A-frame, though in some variations, such rigid metal cladding can beused. Instead, proprietary fabric, plurality of straps, variable-sizedwelded wire mesh, and/or cargo netting is used (over which theliquid-impermeable sheeting is disposed). The fabric/straps/nettingserves a dual purpose: It is not only light-weight, but it also gripsthe horizontal steel bars as the weight of the contained liquids exertdownward force on the A-frame. As a result, the downward pressure of thecontained liquid serves as ballast, holding down the A-frames.

In many embodiments, further holding the plurality of A-frame walls inplace as more liquids are contained in the reservoir is a steel gridsystem/network running along the floor of the reservoir. The design ofthis system accommodates and spreads around expansion forces due to bothtemperature and water-weight. As the liquids push out against thereservoir walls, the grid system transfers tension to the adjacent wall.The tension causes the network of metal bars/rods/straps/strandtendons/cables/ties (in one embodiment, a plurality of ¾″×5″ steelstraps) to expand over the length and width of the pit. Although theexpansion is minimal (typically 2″ over 400′), the system allows thepit/swimming pool to expand and contract safely as it is emptied andfilled, minimizing the chances of breaches into the environment. Inaddition, a plurality of specially designed “hub” members are installedat every point where grid strapping intersects each other, and allow forexpansion by letting the perpendicular steel straps slide past eachother with minimal or no friction. In a typical installation, the gridsystem is assembled using pins to connect grid bars/straps/cables withthe hub assemblies. At the perimeter of the reservoir, grid bars connectto the bottom brace of an A-frame member with pins in the same manner inwhich they connect to the hubs.

In other embodiments, the grid network uses strapping in lieu of themetal grid rods in order to better compensate for stretching stressesfelt as the liquid levels go up. The network of strapping can becomprised of many different materials to this end; for example, amongthe candidate materials that can be used are Zylon®, Dyneema®, Williams®strand cable, or a similar substitute strand cable. In some embodiments,epoxy is also used in conjunction with the strapping to enhance thestructural characteristics.

In still more embodiments, a plurality of adjacent reservoirs can be setup wherein the grid work in some cases extends on both sides of asubstantially A-framed segment that happens to form the boundary of twoseparate reservoirs.

However, it should be noted by those ordinarily skilled in the art thatin some alternate embodiments, a reservoir boundary need not be definedby substantially A-framed segments to enjoy the benefits of thepool-floor grid network. Rather, the grid network can be coupled to thebase of basically any modular industrial-liquid reservoir's elongatedperimeter-boundary segments (e.g., rigid straight wall, rectangularbox-shaped, etc.) for to aid in compensating for the forces associatedwith increased reservoir liquid levels and/or temperature.

In another embodiment, a utility platform, substantially A-framed andmuch larger than the A-frame segments the define the perimeter of thepool/pit, is erected over a point of the pool/pit perimeter in order toprovide a path for running suction hoses and other equipment into thereservoir without such equipment laying on the A-framed perimeter,possibly causing a breach in the liquid-impermeable sheeting draped overthe A-frame segments.

The Quick Pits System can be configured in the field to formindustrial-liquid-containment ponds of varying shapes and sizes. In someembodiments, the capacity of the ponds range from 100,000 barrels to 1million barrels. By being able to quickly and reliably assembleindustrial-liquid-containment systems at user-defined sites, many of thetypical costs and risks realized by operators of industrial sites thatcreate waste water or other industrial liquids are minimized. Bycreating large modifiable containment ponds in the field at centrallocations, expenses associated with trucking, tank rentals, pumping,excavation, reclamation, and other equipment and operating costs arelowered and in some cases eliminated (for example, by havingabove-ground containment ponds, the need for permitting is eliminated inmany jurisdictions. The Quick-Pits System can be readily adapted for usewith frac fluids, fresh water, flow-back water, produced water,hydrocarbon liquids, mining waste water, water and sewage treatmentplants, agriculture waste ponds, and aqua-culture.

In a typical embodiment of the Quick-Pit System, the components employeduse 40% less space than that required for frac tanks and other similaralternative systems in the art, and thus the Quick-Pit System requiresless transportation overhead. The Quick-Pit System eliminates the needfor perimeter fencing, eliminates the need for pit excavation, and ingeneral significantly reduces the environmental footprint required toset up and use as compared to the systems currently used in the art. Forexample, there is no need for holding tank cleaning, less buildup of H₂Sand other undesirable substances is realized, fewer personnel arerequired to setup and manage the system, the components are fullyreusable and easily stack and store together, and the overall operatingcost is typically 50% to 70% less than current industrial-liquidcontainment systems already in the art.

II. Terminology

The terms and phrases as indicated in quotes (“ ”) in this section areintended to have the meaning ascribed to them in this Terminologysection applied to them throughout this document, including the claims,unless clearly indicated otherwise in context. Further, as applicable,the stated definitions are to apply, regardless of the word or phrase'scase, to the singular and plural variations of the defined word orphrase.

The term “or”, as used in this specification and the appended claims, isnot meant to be exclusive; rather, the term is inclusive, meaning“either or both”.

References in the specification to “one embodiment”, “an embodiment”, “apreferred embodiment”, “an alternative embodiment”, “a variation”, “onevariation”, and similar phrases mean that a particular feature,structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodimentis included in at least an embodiment of the invention. The appearancesof the phrase “in one embodiment” and/or “in one variation” in variousplaces in the specification are not necessarily all meant to refer tothe same embodiment.

The term “couple” or “coupled”, as used in this specification and theappended claims, refers to either an indirect or a direct connectionbetween the identified elements, components, or objects. Often themanner of the coupling will be related specifically to the manner inwhich the two coupled elements interact.

The term “removable”, “removably coupled”, “readily removable”, “readilydetachable”, and similar terms, as used in this patent applicationspecification (including the claims and drawings), refer to structuresthat can be uncoupled from an adjoining structure with relative ease(i.e., non-destructively and without a complicated or time-consumingprocess) and that can also be readily reattached or coupled to thepreviously adjoining structure.

Directional and/or relational terms such as, but not limited to, left,right, nadir, apex, top, bottom, vertical, horizontal, back, front, andlateral are relative to each other, are dependent on the specificorientation of an applicable element or article, are used accordingly toaid in the description of the various embodiments, and are notnecessarily intended to be construed as limiting.

As applicable, the terms “about” or “generally”, as used herein unlessotherwise indicated, means a margin of ±20%. Also, as applicable, theterm “substantially” as used herein unless otherwise indicated means amargin of ±10%. It is to be appreciated that not all uses of the aboveterms are quantifiable such that the referenced ranges can be applied.

The term “substantially A-frame shaped” and similar terms, as usedherein unless otherwise indicated, means any structure with two mainwalls or frame-like structures that are oriented/angled such that thetops of the main walls/frames approach the other at or near an apex,while the bottoms edges of those main walls/frames are farther apart,causing the formation of the arch of an “A” as viewed from the end ofthe structure. It should be noted that in some cases there can be spacelocated between the top edges of the two main walls/frames and still beconsidered “substantially A-frame shaped”, so long as the angles of themain walls/frames, if extended, would still intersect. Similarly, theremay be a planar surface disposed between the two main walls/frames andthe structure would still be considered “substantially A-frame shaped”.

The terms “pool”, “pond”, “reservoir”, and “pit”, as used herein unlessotherwise indicated, refer to a man-made repository for industrialliquids or water, and are often used interchangeably herein, unlessotherwise indicated.

The terms “tie-bar”, “rods”, “straps”, “strand tendons”, and “cables”,and similar terms, when used in discussions about a grid networkdisposed about the enclosed reservoir floor, serve largely the samefunction in said grid networks and are often used interchangeablyherein, unless otherwise indicated.

The terms “restorably collapsible”, “resettably stackable”, and similarterms, as used herein unless otherwise indicated, refers to a propertyof an industrial-liquid-containment perimeter structure member that canbe collapsed into a smaller storable and transportable member withouthaving to completely disassemble said structure member. An example is asubstantially A-framed segment that comprised much of a perimeterboundary in one embodiment of a liquid-containment reservoir, whereinthe substantially A-framed segments are hinged near or at the apex ofthe segments to facilitate their collapsibility into a flat profile oncethe interior structural bracing between the two main walls is removed.However, other forms of restorable collapsibility are intended to beincluded in this definition, so long as the “restorable collapsibility”ensures that a given member can be reduced in storage volume withoutrequiring complete disassembly of the member. See, for example, thealternate A-framed embodiment shown in FIG. 18.

III. General Description of Embodiments of a Portable, ModifiableIndustrial-Liquid-Containment System

Refer to FIGS. 1A-1B, which provide an exemplary overview of theQuick-Pit System. In an embodiment, a Quick-Pit System can employ one ormore industrial-liquid-containment ponds/pools 10A, 10B, which comprisea plurality of modular pool-wall segments 20 that are positionedtogether to form a perimeter boundary to define an industrial-liquidholding pool. In another variation, disposed within the perimeterboundary walls is a grid network 30 of tie-bars/rods/straps/strandtendons/cables the span the length and width of the pool/pond,connecting complimentary side of the pool/pond with each other to helpmaintain the structural integrity of the pool/pond by dispersing theforces realized on the pool/pond walls as the pond/pool is filled withliquid and/or temperature changes are realized. In a variation, forimplementations that involve adjacent pools/ponds 10A, 10B, a commonwall structure 35 is used between such adjacent pools/ponds 10A, 10B. Inmore variations, an industrial-liquid-containment pond/pool 10A, 10B isequipped with an equipment bridge 40 that straddles a portion of thepool/pond wall 20 without making direct contact with the pool/pond wall20 such that piping and/or hoses for pumping in or out liquids can beused without stressing or breaching the pool/pond wall 20. (Also seeFIGS. 4A-4C.) In general, most embodiments employ a liquid-impermeablesheeting over the entire industrial-liquid-containment pool/pond 10A,10B, secured on the exterior side of the pool/pond walls, and which isnot shown in the drawings for clarity. In still more embodiments, toprovide added environmental protection, the entireindustrial-liquid-containment pool/pond 10A, 10B resides within (or“floats” on) a secondary, outer industrial-liquid containment system 50,50A, 55, which has its own smaller elevated wall system 50, 50A, and itsown liquid-impermeable sheeting that is disposed underneath the firstindustrial-liquid-containment pools/ponds 10A, 10B, and extends to coverthe entire outer perimeter boundary 50, 50A. In some variations, theliquid-impermeable liner 55 is used in conjunction with a geotextile padlater on top of the liner 55.

Refer to FIGS. 2A-3E, 5A-9I, and 18. In one embodiment, the Quick-PitSystem allows for quick and easy assembly by employing a modular designthat uses a plurality of substantially A-framed segments 20, 20A, 20B,20C, 20D that easily assemble and detachably fit/couple together to formthe perimeter of a liquid-retention pond that is sized and shaped in thefield to conform to the requirements of the end user. In an embodiment,the Quick-Pit System is engineered so that the end user is given avariety of options, the system can be easily implemented, and thatforces of nature are given room to expand and contract. In oneembodiment, the Quick-Pit System is engineered to withstand 120% of theprojected dynamic load of liquids in motion. The heavy-gauge steel oftenused within the containment wall framework in the form of webs, trusses,ties, purlins, footing frameworks, and other similar/related structures21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26 is designed to withstand any stress it will bemet with in the field, including earthquakes, rainfall, extremetemperatures, etc.

In some embodiments, the segments are about 7.5 ft. wide, 9.5 ft. deep,and 10 ft. high with ground rails adapted to allow for the locking ofsegments 20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D together, though the segment sizes andassociated hardware can be scaled up or down to better suit any givenindustrial application. While in many embodiments, the segments aresubstantially A-framed, often in a hinged 25 collapsible design, inother embodiments of the Quick-Pits System, the plurality of segmentsneed not be substantially A-frame-shaped to enjoy all of the novelbenefits of the Quick-Pits System, such as the grid network 30 disposedwithin the pool/pond, and which is discussed more in detail infra. Instill other embodiments, the segments 20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D areprovided in five-ft. increments to better support an effective modulardesign for transport and assembly in the field. While the angles for thegenerally A-framed structure of the perimeter segments 20, 20A, 20B,20C, 20D can vary while still allowing the system to be effective, in atypical embodiment, the two primary load-bearing sides of thesubstantially A-framed segments 20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D (which also canhave a narrow, flat upper surface in some variations) are angled at anapproximately 60-degrees relative to each other.

In an embodiment, a secondary (outer) liquid-containment reservoirperimeter 50, 50A, 55 is set up to provide an extra level ofenvironmental security, wherein the liquid-retention pond 10A, 10B isconstructed within the secondary (outer) liquid-containment perimeter50, 50A. This secondary (outer) liquid-containment boundary 50, 50Acomprises a plurality of formed substantially A-framed (or inverted-V)curb segments (which can be formed or stamped from light-weight metal,such as aluminum, steel, plastic, rubber, wood products, or fiberglass)defines a vertical boundary to provide liquid containment. A layer ormembrane (sheet(s)) of liquid-impermeable material is disposed over theintended first reservoir surface and extends over all of thefirst-perimeter A-framed segments. An example of a suitableliquid-impermeable material that can be used for this purpose is XR-3®PW by Seaman Corporation or other comparable polymeric sheet materialthat is liquid impermeable and stable in an outdoor environment; e.g.,chlorosulfonated polyethelene (CSPE), high-density polyethylene (HDPE),or polypropylene). In many embodiments, sheets of liquid-impermeablematerial are thermoplastic-welded in the field to create a largecovering for the entire first (outer) industrial-liquid-containmentsystem. Often, in this basic configuration, the height of thecontainment segments is relatively low; e.g., two feet or less. Thisfirst (outer) industrial-liquid-containment system is described in greatdetail in Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) Application No. PCT/US11/50834, upon which the present patent application both claims thebenefit of and incorporates by reference the entirety of. Thisdouble-perimeter configuration provides greatly enhanced systemreliability for containing the industrial liquids.

In other embodiments, a primary liquid-holding reservoir 10A, 10B isdisposed within the secondary liquid-containment boundary 50, 50A, ineffect making the secondary liquid-holding reservoir into a backupcontainment for the primary liquid-holding reservoir 10A, 10B. In somevariations, the substantially A-framed containment segments 20, 20A,20B, 20C, 20D are significantly higher than those of the outer secondaryperimeter segments 50, 50A, and are constructed at the worksite in thefield, where the basic A-frames, inter-A-frame struts, base rails andtrusses, and outer load-bearing panels and such are put together.Spanning the across the intended primary containment pool 10A, 10B area,is a network of grid members 30 to help that ultimately help relieve thestresses imposed on the primary liquid-holding reservoir containmentsegments, thus enhancing wall integrity. (See, e.g., FIGS. 11A-11F, and16A-17B.)

The A-frame walls 20 are held in place by a steel grid system 30 runningalong the floor of the pit. In embodiments, Quick-Pit Systems areengineered to accommodate expansion due to both temperature andwater-weight. As the liquids push out against the pit walls 20, the gridsystem 30 transfers tension to the adjacent wall. The tension causes thegrid bars/rods/straps/strand tendons/cables 32A, 32B, 33 (typically¾″×5″ steel straps, in some variations) to expand over the length and/orwidth of the pit 10A, 10B. Although the expansion is minimal (2 in. over400 ft.), the Quick-Pit System allows the pit to expand and contractsafely as it is emptied and filled.

In variations, the hub members 31 used in the grid network 30 (see FIGS.11A-11F, and 16A-17B) allow for expansion by letting the perpendicularbars/rods/straps/strand tendons/cables slide past each other withoutfriction, or at least minimal friction. In some variations, the hubmembers 31 are comprised of a slide pad 31 (in some embodiments, made ofwood, plastic, UHMW, and/or other relatively light-weight andlow-friction material), coated with a low-friction material; e.g., PTFE,polyurethane, etc.; and a cross-tie member. In a variation, the hubslide pad 31 has four guide slots 31B adapted to slidably receive pinsdisposed in the cross-tie members 31A. In an embodiment, the metalcross-tie member (also sometimes called a “hub assembly”) 31A isdisposed to be slidably engaged with a slide pad 31 (comprised of wood,plastic, UHMW, and/or other relatively low-friction material) via fourslots adapted to receive pins disposed on the slide pad 31, and has fourattachment points for grid tie-bars/rods/straps/strand tendons/cables.The metal cross-tie member 31A is designed to have two pairs oftie-bars/rods/straps/strand tendons/cables, each pair orientedsubstantially orthogonally relative to each other, wherein the cross-tiemember 31A allows slidable movement of each of the bars of the cross-tiemember 31A relative to the other. Basically, the middle section of oneof the cross-tie bars is a planar thru-bar adapted to fit within the twospaced-apart pass-thru plates that comprise the middle section of theother cross-tie bar.

In many variations, the grid system 30 is assembled using pins toconnect grid bars/rods/straps/strand tendons/cables 32A, 32B with hubs31. At the perimeter of the pit 20, grid tie-bars/rods/straps/strandtendons/cables 32A, 32B connect to the bottom brace of the perimetersegments 20 with pins in the same manner in which they connect to thehubs 31. In still more variations, one or more tie-bar slide pads 33,may be used to provide underlying vertical support of eachtie-bar/rod/strap/strand tendon/cable 32A, 32B.

In some embodiments, this grid work 30 is installed using a plurality ofinterlocking steel rods or bars 32A, 32B. In other embodiments,strapping and/or cabling is used in lieu of metal grid rods/bars 32A,32B in order to better compensate for stretching stresses felt as theliquid levels go up. The network of strapping/cabling 30 can becomprised of many different materials to this end; for example, amongthe candidate materials that can be used are Zylon®, Dyneema®, Williams®strand cable, or a similar substitute strand cable. In some embodiments,epoxy is also used in conjunction with the strapping/cabling to enhancethe structural characteristics. In still more embodiments, a pluralityof adjacent liquid-containment ponds 10A, 10B can be set up wherein thegrid work 30 in some cases extends on both sides of a substantiallyA-framed segment 20 that happens to form the boundary 35 of two separateliquid-containment ponds.

However, it should be noted by those ordinarily skilled in the art thatin some alternate embodiments, a reservoir boundary need not be definedby substantially A-framed segments 20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D to enjoy thebenefits of the pool-floor grid network 30. Rather, the grid network 30can be coupled to the base of basically any modular industrial-liquidreservoir's elongated perimeter-boundary segments (e.g., rigid straightwall, rectangular box-shaped, etc.) for to aid in compensating for theforces associated with increased reservoir liquid levels and/ortemperature. See, e.g., FIGS. 10A-10G.

Over the grid network of tie-bars/rods/strapping/cabling is placed alayer or membrane (sheet(s)) of liquid-impermeable material is disposedover the intended first reservoir surface and extends over the primaryperimeter A-framed segments 20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, and the interveningfirst containment pool area. An example of a suitable liquid-impermeablematerial that can be used for this purpose is XR-3® PW by SeamanCorporation or other comparable polymeric sheet material that is liquidimpermeable and stable in an outdoor environment; e.g., chlorosulfonatedpolyethelene (CSPE), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), or polypropylene.

In an alternate embodiment of the grid-network system, the plurality ofrelatively short tie-rod/bar/strap/cables and hub-assemblies (comprisedof pads and cross-tie members) is completely replaced with a pluralityof intersecting cables, each cable anchored on each end to an opposingpoint on the segmented reservoir perimeter wall. See FIGS. 19A-19C.

Refer to FIGS. 2A-2C, and 8A-9I. In an embodiment, the A-frame segments20, 20A, 20B, 20C can be hinged 25 at the top so as to allow its twosides to be folded together to facilitate easier storage and transport.A hinge 25 at the top of the frame 20, 20A, 20B, 20C allows the frame tofold together when the center and bottom braces are removed. Referringalso to FIG. 18, when the frame 20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D is in use, thecenter and bottom braces 21, 23, 24 are held in place with pins. Oncethe frames 20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D are in compact/collapsed form, theycan be easily transported and stored.

In some embodiments, the A-frame segments 20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D areclad in with structurally rigid and planar material (see, e.g., FIGS.2A-2C, and 3E: 26, 26A), such as, for example, steel cladding or rigidplastic sheeting before being covered by the layer of liquid-impermeablematerial. However, in still another embodiment, such rigid cladding isnot used on the water side of most of the A-frame segments 20, andinstead what is applied over at least the water side of the A-framesegments 20 are sheets of fabric, cargo netting, and/or variable-sizedwelded wire mesh. (See, e.g., FIGS. 2B-2C; 27, 28, respectively.) Insuch a variation, the fabric/netting serves a dual purpose: It is notonly light-weight and takes up relatively little storage space, but thefabric also “grips” the horizontal steel bars or purlins 22 as theweight of the liquids exert downward force on the A-frame segments 20.As a result, the downward pressure of the containment liquids serves asballast, holding down the A-frames segments 20. In one embodiment,substantially contiguous sheets of high-strength fabric 27 (e.g., nylonwebbing, polypropylene webbing, polyester webbing, etc.) are used tocover at least the water-side of the A-frame segments 20. In anotherembodiment, a form of cargo netting 28, a lattice of high-strengthwebbing 28 (e.g., nylon webbing, polypropylene webbing, polyesterwebbing, etc.), or a variable-sized welded wire mesh is used to cover atleast the water-side of the A-frame segments 20. In a variation, alattice of 2-in. polyester webbing 28, rated at 6000-lbs break strength,is installed over at least the water-side of the A-frame members 20. Ina further variation, this webbing lattice includes a plurality ofvertically oriented narrow web straps (for example 2-in. polyesterwebbing, rated at 6000-lbs break strength), that are sewn to a pluralityof wider, horizontally oriented web material, wherein each of thesehorizontal web sections 28 is positioned to rest over an associatedA-frame-segment 20 purlin 22, and is wider than the associated purlin22.

In a variation, a plurality of substantially A-frame segments 20 arepositioned substantially end-to-end, although corners are formed asnecessary such that the ends of said substantially A-frame segments 20used to form a corner are proximal to each other (as opposed toend-to-end), in order to define a perimeter boundary for theindustrial-liquid-containment pool 10A, 10B.

Referring to FIGS. 3D, 5A-5C, 6A-6C, 7A-7B, 8A-8C, and 18, in anotheralternative variation on corner construction, a plurality of pairs ofmated, substantially rigid, substantially A-frame segments 20A, 20B,20C, 20D are adapted to substantially form a predetermined angle at thepoint where the substantially A-frame segments 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D ofeach of the mated pairs is substantially buttressed to the other at thepredetermined angled mating edges. Like the regular substantiallyA-frame segments 20, corner A-frame segments 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D can beshaped to form a substantially A-framed channel when resting on theground, and can have a top flat surface at the apex of the segment. Inaddition, in many embodiments, substantially A-frame segments 20A, 20B,20C, 20D are clad substantially on their liquid-load-bearing side with asubstantially rigid sheet material selected from a group comprised ofaluminum, precast concrete, aluminum alloy, steel, plastic, rubber, woodproducts, and/or fiberglass. Similarly, in variations, cornersubstantially A-frame segments 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D are hinged at theirapex to allow for their convenient collapsibility and stacking, whichreduces the storage area required for the components, and which makestransport to a worksite easier.

In some embodiments, the corner substantially A-frame segments 20A, 20B,20C, 20D are adapted to be detachably coupled to a ground-level rigidballast member 15A, 15B, 15C, wherein the ballast member 15A, 15B, 15Cis adapted to hold each of the corner substantially A-frame segments20A, 20B, 20C, 20D of a mated pair of corner curb members 55B inposition at said predetermined angle, depending on the designed shapeand size of a perimeter boundary of an industrial-liquid-containmentsystem. On the non-angled end of each corner substantially A-framesegments 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, the corner substantially A-frame segments20A, 20B, 20C, 20D is positioned substantially end-to-end with anadjacent said elongated substantially A-frame segment 20 in order tohelp define a perimeter boundary around a user-definedindustrial-liquid-containment pool. In still more variations, a ballastmember 15A, 15B, 15C can is substantially made of a material selectedfrom a group comprised of aluminum, precast concrete, aluminum alloy,steel, hard plastic, wood products, and/or fiberglass. Moreover, instill another embodiment, each ballast member 15A, 15B, 15C contains aweighting material to help anchor each ballast member 15A, 15B, 15C andits associated corner substantially A-frame segments 20A, 20B, 20C, 20Din place on the ground, and each ballast member 15A, 15B, 15C isweighted with a material selected from a group comprised of concrete,dirt, water, and/or metal. In still other variations, the ballast member15A, 15B, 15C is a substantially solid member made of heavy metal, suchas steel.

In some embodiments, the generally hollow A-framed containment segments20, 20A, 20B, 20C (see, e.g., FIGS. 3A-3E, and 18), which are coupledtogether to form the liquid-containment barrier, can be adapted tofacilitate equipment storage and/or the heating of the entire assembledliquid-containment barrier. In an embodiment, such heating can be by wayof forced air, while in still other embodiments, heat-conducting memberssuch as heat-tracing tape may be used. In addition, in some variations,electronic sensing and monitoring equipment can be housed; e.g., leveldetectors, temperature monitoring, alarms, leak-detection systems, etc.

Refer to FIGS. 4A-4C. In another variation, a suction system 62 can beinstalled that poses no threat of breaching the integrity of theliquid-impermeable membrane 45 covering the entire retention pond 10A,10B. In such a case, suction pipes/hoses 62 running over the walls donot come into contact with the liner, as the pipes 62 are attached to abridge 40 (60A-60C, 63, 64) straddling the pit wall. Fluids can eitherbe drawn off the top of the water or extracted from the bottom,depending on the operator's needs. The bridges 40 can be placed anywherealong the walls and any number of bridges can be added. For ease oftransport, the bridges fold up to fit on flat-beds. Because theQuick-Pit System has the ability to fit any configuration and meet anywater needs, the end user is given a wide verity of options.

Typical applications for the Quick-Pit System includes the oil & gasexploration industry, the mining industry, the water & sewage treatmentindustry, and the arigicultural industry, including holding systems forfrac water and other waste water as a result of industrial operations,though it would be appreciated by anyone skilled in the art of managingindustrial effluents and/or waste that the inventive disclosuresprovided herein provide a good option for managing industrial liquids.In other applications of the Quick-Pit System, portable, customizableponds that can be used in support of fish-farming systems can be erectedand used.

In other variations, the system described supra is embodied as a kitcomprised of the specialized components described supra, wherein the kitis transported to a user-defined project site and the kit's componentsare used to assemble a customized industrial-liquid-containment system.

Moreover, methods of making said kits and industrial-liquid-containmentsystems by providing and using said specialized components and/orcombination of components described herein are considered part of theinventive disclosure.

IV. Methods of Use of an Industrial-Liquid-Containment System

The uses for the myriad embodiments and variations described in SectionIII are many. All are intended to be encompassed by the disclosureherein. This section describes several exemplary methods of use ofsystems based on the embodiments and variations discussed in SectionIII.

In one method of using at least one kit for a portable, modular,in-field modifiable, liquid-containment system according to Section III,the method comprises the steps of:

-   -   Obtaining at least one kit for a portable, modular, in-field        modifiable, liquid-containment system according to an embodiment        and/or variation described in Section III;    -   Installing at least two adjacent industrial-liquid-containment        reservoirs, including an outer secondary containment system,        using the at least one kit (see, e.g., FIGS. 1A: 10A, 10B);    -   Designating one of the industrial-liquid-containment reservoirs        10A, 10B as a repository for clean for industrial use;    -   Designating one of the industrial-liquid-containment reservoirs        10A, 10B as a repository for potentially contaminated        industrial-waste water for industrial use and/or reclamation        processes;    -   Installing at least one substantially A-framed auxiliary        equipment-support member 40 (also see FIGS. 4A-4C: 40A-40C) for        each of the industrial-liquid-containment reservoirs, sized to        be positioned to straddle over its respective first perimeter        boundary without making direct contact with its respective first        perimeter boundary comprised of said plurality of elongated        perimeter wall segments (e.g., 20, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D), wherein:        -   at least one said auxiliary equipment-support member has an            equipment-support platform disposed at the top of the            auxiliary equipment support member 40, 40A, 40B;    -   Installing via said at least one substantially A-framed        auxiliary equipment-support member 40, 40A, 40B at least one        pipe or hose 62 dedicated to facilitating the introduction of        liquids into said associated liquid-containment reservoir 10A,        10B;    -   Installing via said at least one substantially A-framed        auxiliary equipment-support member 40, 40A, 40B at least one        pipe or hose 62 dedicated to the removal of liquids from said        associated liquid-containment reservoir 10A, 10B; and    -   Installing for each said hose or pipe, at least one in-line        control valve and pumping device to facilitate the transfer of        liquids.

This embodiment can be extended wherein the in-line control valves andpumping devices can be electrically controlled form a remote locationrelative to said industrial-liquid-containment reservoirs. Such remoteelectro-mechanical controls are well known in the art and are not shownin the figures.

Further still, this embodiment can be enhanced wherein theindustrial-liquid-containment reservoirs 10 a, 10B are centrally locatedrelative to a plurality of satellite industrial complexes (not shown inthe figures) that use clean water and/or generatepotentially-contaminated industrial liquid waste, and wherein each ofthe plurality of satellite industrial complexes has at least oneindustrial-liquid storage system that is communicatively coupled to theat least one liquid-containment reservoirs 10A, 10B via a network ofhoses and/or piping systems 62, including the in-line control valves andpumping devices. In such an enhancement, the method further comprisesthe steps of:

-   -   As needed, transferring clean water from the centrally located        industrial-liquid-containment reservoir 10A, 10B to a satellite        industrial complex via the network of hoses and/or piping        systems 62; and    -   As needed, transferring industrial-waste liquids from a        satellite industrial complex to the centrally located        industrial-liquid-containment reservoir 10A, 10B via said        network of hoses and/or piping systems 62.

Another extension of this embodiment can be realized, wherein theindustrial-liquid-containment reservoirs 10A, 10B are centrally locatedrelative to a industrial-liquids truck load and offload station (notshown in the figures), the station communicatively coupled to the hosesand/or pipes 62 dedicated to removal and/or introduction of industrialliquids, and wherein the industrial-liquids truck load and offloadstation is adapted to receive an industrial truck for loading oroffloading industrial liquids. The method in this extension furthercomprises the steps of:

-   -   As needed, transferring clean water from the centrally located        industrial-liquid-containment reservoir to an industrial truck;    -   As needed, transferring industrial liquids from the centrally        located industrial-liquid-containment reservoir to an industrial        truck;    -   As needed, transferring clean water from and industrial truck to        the centrally located industrial-liquid-containment reservoir;        and    -   As needed, transferring industrial-waste liquids from an        industrial truck to the centrally located        industrial-liquid-containment reservoir.

In another extension of the above methods of using at least one kit fora portable, modular, in-field modifiable, liquid-containment systemaccording to Section III, the industrial-liquid-containment reservoirs10A, 10B are centrally located relative to a industrial-liquidspurification system (not shown in the figures), the purification systemcommunicatively coupled to each of a dedicated reservoir for clean-waterand a reservoir dedicated for potentially contaminated industrial-wastewater, the method further comprising the steps of:

-   -   Aligning the purification system to draw potentially        contaminated industrial waste water from the dedicated        reservoir;    -   Aligning the purification system to discharge purified or        “clean” water to the dedicated reservoir for clean water;    -   Purifying drawn potentially contaminated industrial-waste water;        and    -   Discharging purified (clean) water into the reservoir dedicated        to the clean water.

In another method of using at least one kit for a portable, modular,in-field modifiable, liquid-containment system according to Section III,the method comprises the steps of:

-   -   Obtaining at least one kit for a portable, modular, in-field        modifiable, liquid-containment system according to Section III,        described supra;    -   Transporting the kit, in its collapsed, stowed mode, to a        user-defined location;    -   Installing at least one industrial-liquid-containment reservoir        10A, 10B using the kit at the user-defined location;    -   When no longer needed, draining, then disassembling the        industrial-liquid-containment reservoir 10A, 10B, wherein the        reservoir components from the kit are placed in a collapsed and        stowed mode; and    -   Transporting the collapsed and stowed kit to a user-designated        location.

This method can be further enhanced, by further comprising the step ofleasing the kit to an end-user for a period of time. Similarly, inanother enhancement, the method further comprises the step of sellingthe kit to an end-user.

Other methods of use of the Quick-Pits System can include the erectionof one or more reservoirs for use in the oil & gas exploration industryfor frac water, and the holding and management of effluent waste in themining industry, though it would be appreciated by anyone skilled in theart of managing industrial effluents and/or waste that the inventivedisclosures provided herein provide a good option for managingindustrial liquids. In other applications of the Quick-Pit System,portable, customizable ponds that can be used in support of fish-farmingsystems can be erected and used. Moreover, the Quick-Pits System can beused by water & sewage treatment plants, agriculture-waste ponds, and inaqua-culture.

V. Alternative Embodiments and Other Variations

The various embodiments and variations thereof described herein,including the appended claims, and/or illustrated in the accompanyingFigures are merely exemplary and are not meant to limit the scope of theinventive disclosure. It should be appreciated that numerous variationsof the invention have been contemplated as would be obvious to one ofordinary skill in the art with the benefit of this disclosure.

Hence, those ordinarily skilled in the art will have no difficultydevising myriad obvious variations and improvements to the invention,all of which are intended to be encompassed within the scope of thedescription, claims, and figures herein.

1-26. (canceled)
 27. A portable, modular, in-field modifiable,liquid-containment system, comprising: a plurality of elongated,substantially A-framed segments, wherein: each side of each saidsubstantially A-framed segments making up said A-frame has at least onepurlin disposed substantially along the length of said purlin'sassociated A-frame segment, each of said substantially A-framed segmentsis configured to have a plurality of structural supports to be installedbetween internal sides of substantially A-framed segment sides such thatsaid substantially A-frame shape can be maintained as loads are exertedupon said substantially A-framed segment, each of said substantiallyA-framed segments is restorably collapsible in order to facilitate thestacking said segments, to make storage and transport easier, and saidplurality of substantially A-framed segments are adapted to bepositioned substantially end-to-end, forming corners as necessary suchthat the ends of said substantially A-framed segments used to form acorner are proximal to each other, in order to be able to define a firstperimeter boundary around a user-defined pool for industrial liquid; aplurality of pliable load-bearing panels, each adapted to be installedon an intended liquid-containing side of an A-framed segment; and acontinuous layer of liquid-impermeable sheeting adapted to be disposedover the bottom surface for a user-defined pool for liquid, saidsheeting adapted to be extended over all of a user-defined firstperimeter boundary, wherein said liquid-impermeable sheeting is adaptedto be secured at intervals on the non-liquid-side of said plurality ofsubstantially A-framed segments, wherein said liquid-impermeablesheeting is resistant to damage from ultra-violet rays. 28-34.(canceled)
 35. The liquid-containment system of claim 27, furthercomprising a plurality of pairs of mated substantially rigid cornerA-framed segments adapted to substantially form a predetermined angle atthe point where the corner A-framed segment of each of said mated pairsis substantially buttressed to the other at the predetermined angledmating edges, wherein: each of said corner A-framed segments is hassubstantially rigid cladding over said at least one purlin on saidintended liquid-containing side of said corner A-framed segment; saidshape of each of said corner A-framed segments is restorably collapsiblein order to facilitate the stacking of A-framed segments, to makestorage and transport easier; and the non-angled end of each of saidplurality of said corner A-framed segments is adapted to be positionedsubstantially end-to-end with an adjacent said A-framed segment in orderto help define a perimeter boundary around a user-defined pool forindustrial liquid, wherein each of said mated pairs of corner A-framedsegments is adapted to be detachably coupled to a ground-level rigidballast member, said ballast member adapted to hold each of the cornerA-framed segments of a mated pair of corner A-framed segments inposition at said predetermined angle, wherein each said ballast memberis substantially made of a material selected from the group consistingof aluminum, precast concrete, aluminum alloy, steel, hard plastic, woodproducts, and fiberglass. 36-37. (canceled)
 38. The liquid-containmentsystem of claim 35, wherein: each said ballast member contains aweighting material to help anchor each said ballast member and itsassociated corner A-framed segments in place on the ground; and eachsaid ballast member is weighted with a material selected from the groupconsisting of concrete, dirt, water, and metal.
 39. Theliquid-containment system of claim 27, further comprising components fora backup portable, modular, liquid-containment system, said backupliquid-containment system adapted to provide a second liquid-impermeablelayer under said user-defined pool for industrial liquid and to providea second elevated perimeter boundary outside of said user-defined firstperimeter boundary; the backup liquid-containment system comprising: aplurality of elongated, substantially rigid curb members, wherein: eachof said curb members is comprised of sheet material, each of said curbmembers is shaped to form a substantially inverted “V” channel whenresting on the ground, said shape of each of said curb members isadapted to facilitate the nestable stacking of one or more of said curbmembers in order to make storage and transport easier, and saidplurality of said curb members are adapted to be positionedsubstantially end-to-end, forming corners as necessary such that theends of said curb members used to form a corner are proximal to eachother, in order to be able to define a perimeter boundary around atarget storage container of liquid; and a continuous layer ofliquid-impermeable sheeting adapted to be disposed over the surfaceunder and around a target storage container of liquid, said sheetingadapted to be extended over all of a second elevated perimeter boundary.40-59. (canceled)
 60. A portable, modular, in-field modifiable,liquid-containment system, comprising: a plurality of elongatedperimeter-boundary segments, wherein: said plurality ofperimeter-boundary segments are positioned substantially end-to-end,forming corners as necessary such that the ends of saidperimeter-boundary segments used to form a corner are proximal to eachother, in order to be able to define a first perimeter boundary around auser-defined pool for industrial liquid, and each of said plurality ofperimeter-boundary segments is adapted to be coupled to a ground-levelbase structure; a liquid-containment pool expansion compensation gridnetwork, comprised of a plurality of tie-bars and hub-pad assemblies,wherein said grid network is adapted to couple opposing sides of saiduser-defined pool for industrial liquid, at the footing of opposing saidperimeter-boundary segments, such that outward expansion forces due tothe increase of contained industrial liquids and/or increases in liquidtemperature are effectively resisted, said plurality of tie-bars isdisposed across the base of said user-defined pool for industrial liquidin a crisscross pattern, each pair of in-line tie-bars are coupled viaan intervening hub-pad assembly, and each hub-pad assembly comprises athru-bar and a pass-through plate, hereinafter referred to as across-tie member, in order to facilitate the free movement ofintersecting tie-bar lines so that intersecting tie-bar line do notinterfere with each other; and a continuous layer of liquid-impermeablesheeting adapted to be disposed over the bottom surface, including saidgrid network, for a user-defined pool for liquid, said sheeting adaptedto be extended over all of a user-defined first perimeter boundary,wherein said liquid-impermeable sheeting is adapted to be secured atintervals on the non-liquid-side of said plurality of perimeter-boundarysegments.
 61. (canceled)
 62. The liquid-containment system of claim 60wherein each of said plurality of perimeter-boundary segments is adaptedto be detachably coupled on each end to an adjacent perimeter-boundarysegment. 63-64. (canceled)
 65. The liquid-containment system of claim60, further comprising components for a backup portable, modular,liquid-containment system, said backup liquid-containment system adaptedto provide a second liquid-impermeable layer under said user-definedpool for industrial liquid and to provide a second elevated perimeterboundary outside of said user-defined first perimeter boundary; thebackup liquid-containment system comprising: a plurality of elongated,substantially rigid curb members, wherein: each of said curb members iscomprised of sheet material, each of said curb members is shaped to forma substantially inverted “V” channel when resting on the ground, saidshape of each of said curb members is adapted to facilitate the nestablestacking of one or more of said curb members in order to make storageand transport easier, and said plurality of said curb members areadapted to be positioned substantially end-to-end, forming corners asnecessary such that the ends of said curb members used to form a cornerare proximal to each other, in order to be able to define a perimeterboundary around a target storage container of liquid; and a continuouslayer of liquid-impermeable sheeting adapted to be disposed over thesurface under and around a target storage container of liquid, saidsheeting adapted to be extended over all of a second elevated perimeterboundary.
 66. (canceled)
 67. The liquid-containment system of claim 60,wherein said plurality of hub-pad assemblies for said liquid-containmentpool expansion compensation grid network are comprised of: a cross-tiemember substantially made of a material selected from the groupconsisting of metal, UHMW, or other relatively low-friction material,wherein each of the four ends of each said cross-tie member has anattachment point for a tie-bar attachment; and a slide pad substantiallymade of a material selected from the group consisting of wood, plastic,UHMW, and other relatively low-friction material, wherein said slide padhas four guide slots adapted to slidably receive pins disposed in thecross-tie members. 68-69. (canceled)
 70. A kit for a portable, modular,in-field modifiable, liquid-containment system, comprising: a pluralityof elongated, substantially A-framed segments, wherein: each side ofeach said substantially A-framed segments making up said A-frame has atleast one purlin disposed substantially along the length of saidpurlin's associated A-frame segment, each of said substantially A-framedsegments is configured to have a plurality of structural supports to beinstalled between internal sides of substantially A-framed segment sidessuch that said substantially A-frame shape can be maintained as loadsare exerted upon said substantially A-framed segment, each of saidsubstantially A-framed segments is restorably collapsible in order tofacilitate the stacking of said segments, to make storage and transporteasier, and said plurality of substantially A-framed segments areadapted to be positioned substantially end-to-end, forming corners asnecessary such that the ends of said substantially A-framed segmentsused to form a corner are proximal to each other, in order to be able todefine a first perimeter boundary around a user-defined pool forindustrial liquid; a plurality of pliable load-bearing panels, eachadapted to be installed on an intended liquid-containing side of anA-framed segment; a subkit for a liquid-containment pool expansioncompensation grid network, comprised of a plurality of tie-bars andhub-pad assemblies, wherein said grid network is adapted to coupleopposing sides of said user-defined pool for industrial liquid, at thefooting of opposing said substantially A-framed segments, such thatoutward expansion forces due to the increase of contained industrialliquids and/or increases in liquid temperature are effectively resisted,said plurality of tie-bars is disposed across the base of saiduser-defined pool for industrial liquid in a crisscross pattern, eachpair of in-line tie-bars are coupled via an intervening hub-padassembly, and each hub-pad assembly comprises a thru-bar and apass-through plate, hereinafter referred to as a cross-tie member, inorder to facilitate the free movement of intersecting tie-bar lines sothat intersecting tie-bar line do not interfere with each other; and acontinuous layer of liquid-impermeable sheeting adapted to be disposedover the bottom surface for a user-defined pool for liquid, saidsheeting adapted to be extended over all of a user-defined firstperimeter boundary, wherein said liquid-impermeable sheeting is adaptedto be secured at intervals on the non-liquid-side of said plurality ofsubstantially A-framed segments.
 71. The liquid-containment system kitof claim 70, wherein: each of said plurality of load-bearing panels isselected from the group consisting of fabric, cargo netting, andvariable-sized welded wire mesh; and each said pliable load-bearingpanel is adapted to transfer the weight of contained liquid via saidliquid-impermeable sheeting into a downward force exerted on said atleast one purlin, thereby providing a stabilizing ballast for theassociated substantially A-framed segment.
 72. (canceled)
 73. Theliquid-containment system kit of claim 70, wherein said restorablecollapsibility of each of said substantially A-framed segments isaccomplished with hinges disposed at or near the apex of each of saidsubstantially A-framed segments.
 74. The liquid-containment system kitof claim 70, wherein each of said plurality of substantially A-framedsegments is adapted to be detachably coupled on each end to an adjacentsubstantially A-framed segment. 75-77. (canceled)
 78. Theliquid-containment system kit of claim 70, further comprising aplurality of pairs of mated substantially rigid corner A-framed segmentsadapted to substantially form a predetermined angle at the point wherethe corner A-framed segment of each of said mated pairs is substantiallybuttressed to the other at the predetermined angled mating edges,wherein: each of said corner A-framed segments is has substantiallyrigid cladding over said at least one purlin on said intendedliquid-containing side of said corner A-framed segment; said shape ofeach of said corner A-framed segments is restorably collapsible in orderto facilitate the stacking of A-framed segments, to make storage andtransport easier; and the non-angled end of each of said plurality ofsaid corner A-framed segments is adapted to be positioned substantiallyend-to-end with an adjacent said A-framed segment in order to helpdefine a perimeter boundary around a user-defined pool for industrialliquid.
 79. The liquid-containment system kit of claim 78, wherein eachof said mated pairs of corner A-framed segments is adapted to bedetachably coupled to a ground-level rigid ballast member, said ballastmember adapted to hold each of the corner A-framed segments of a matedpair of corner A-framed segments in position at said predeterminedangle.
 80. The liquid-containment system kit of claim 79, wherein eachsaid ballast member is substantially made of a material selected fromthe group consisting of aluminum, precast concrete, aluminum alloy,steel, hard plastic, wood products, and fiberglass.
 81. Theliquid-containment system kit of claim 79, wherein: each said ballastmember contains a weighting material to help anchor each said ballastmember and its associated corner A-framed segments in place on theground; and each said ballast member is weighted with a materialselected from the group consisting of concrete, dirt, water, and metal.82. The liquid-containment system kit of claim 70, further comprisingcomponents for a backup portable, modular, liquid-containment systemkit, said backup liquid-containment system kit adapted to provide asecond liquid-impermeable layer under said user-defined pool forindustrial liquid and to provide a second elevated perimeter boundaryoutside of said user-defined first perimeter boundary; the backupliquid-containment system kit comprising: a plurality of elongated,substantially rigid curb members, wherein: each of said curb members iscomprised of sheet material, each of said curb members is shaped to forma substantially inverted “V” channel when resting on the ground, saidshape of each of said curb members is adapted to facilitate the nestablestacking of one or more of said curb members in order to make storageand transport easier, and said plurality of said curb members areadapted to be positioned substantially end-to-end, forming corners asnecessary such that the ends of said curb members used to form a cornerare proximal to each other, in order to be able to define a perimeterboundary around a target storage container of liquid; and a continuouslayer of liquid-impermeable sheeting adapted to be disposed over thesurface under and around a target storage container of liquid, saidsheeting adapted to be extended over all of a second elevated perimeterboundary.
 83. (canceled)
 84. The liquid-containment system kit of claim70, wherein said plurality of hub-pad assemblies for saidliquid-containment pool expansion compensation grid network arecomprised of: a cross-tie member substantially made of a materialselected from the group consisting of metal, UHMW, or other relativelylow-friction material, wherein each of the four ends of each saidcross-tie member has an attachment point for a tie-bar attachment; and aslide pad substantially made of a material selected from the groupconsisting of wood, plastic, UHMW, and other relatively low-frictionmaterial, wherein said slide pad has four guide slots adapted toslidably receive pins disposed in the cross-tie members. 85-120.(canceled)
 121. The liquid-containment system of claim 27, wherein saidplurality of coupled substantially A-framed segments form an elongatedcavity within said first perimeter boundary structure, furthercomprising heating equipment to prevent the formation of ice along saidfirst perimeter boundary. 122-124. (canceled)
 125. Theliquid-containment system of claim 27, further comprising at least onesubstantially A-framed auxiliary equipment support member, sized to bepositioned to straddle over said first perimeter boundary without makingdirect contact with said first perimeter boundary comprised of saidplurality of substantially A-framed segments, wherein: said auxiliaryequipment support member has an equipment-support platform disposed atthe top of said auxiliary equipment support member; and said auxiliaryequipment support member has a ladder or set of stair steps forpersonnel access to said equipment-support platform. 126-154. (canceled)